Jackson, Kentucky — A major and long-lasting winter storm is expected to impact eastern Kentucky starting Saturday morning, bringing heavy snow, dangerous ice accumulation, and a heightened risk of power outages through early Monday.
The National Weather Service in Jackson said a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Saturday until 7 a.m. Monday for much of east central, northeast, south central, and southeast Kentucky. Areas along and northwest of a line from Pulaski County to Pike County could receive between 7 and 14 inches of snow, with the heaviest totals expected near and north of the I-64 corridor. Ice accumulations in these areas could reach up to four-tenths of an inch.
Farther southeast, including parts of Whitley, Bell, Harlan, Letcher, and Pike counties, heavy mixed precipitation is forecast. Snow totals of 3 to 7 inches are possible, along with ice accumulations ranging from one-tenth to one-half inch, increasing the risk of tree damage and prolonged power outages.
Travel conditions are expected to worsen quickly Saturday and remain hazardous through Sunday night. Roads, bridges, and mountain passes could become nearly impassable, raising concerns for emergency access and the Monday morning commute. Officials are urging residents to avoid non-essential travel, prepare for extended power outages, and keep emergency supplies readily available.
The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through early Monday, and additional updates are expected as conditions change. Residents are encouraged to monitor local alerts and check road conditions on GoKY before traveling.
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